As three out of the first five sectors selected by the Centre for the deep-sea mining off Kerala coast are located in Kollam Parappu (Quilon bank), one of the busiest fishing hubs in the south-west coast, fishers feel that the move will spell doom for the sector. This region, stretching from Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district to Ambalappuzha in Alappuzha district, is a rich fishing ground frequented by highest number of trawlers and traditional boats. A lot of mechanised vessels, mesh gill net boats and fishers who use hook and line from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been operating in the area as the area has several species of marine fish and deep-sea shrimps.
“Kollam Parappu, is a region teeming with commercially valuable seafood varieties including internationally sought-after shrimp varieties such as giant tiger prawn and Karikadi shrimp. Additionally, it is a significant source of fish like king fish, pink perch, anchovy, sardine and mackerel along with several export-oriented squid varieties. Lakhs of people including fishers and those engaged in allied activities will be affected,” said All Kerala Fishing Boat Operators Association president Peter Mathias.
Fishers also point out that the decision to start mining was taken without scientific studies or discussions with various stakeholders. “Before mining they will be removing 1.5 meter thick top soil which will impact the marine biodiversity and ecosystem. As it will have an adverse effect on fish resources and environment the Centre should not go ahead with this project,” said Kerala Matsyathozilali Forum general secretary K. J. Yesudasan. The fishers add that the decision violates the rights of traditional fishers engaged in capture fisheries in order to promotes privatization of resources. “As it can have a significant impact on the sector, the government should stop the move. Otherwise the fishing community in Kerala will unitedly launch strong protests,” said Mr. Mathias.